A look back at the original reporting and analysis found on MLBTR the past seven days:
- The week was highlighted by the Prince Fielder–Ian Kinsler blockbuster. MLBTR's coverage began with Rangers GM Jon Daniels telling Zach Links the deal came together in a matter of hours. Zach also spoke with Tigers President/CEO/GM Dave Dombrowksi, who said the trade makes a Max Scherzer extension "more possible going forward."
- Tim Dierkes opined the Tigers and Rangers will each reap benefits from the swap while Jeff Todd addressed its impact on both the trade and free agent markets.
- Tim sees the Yankees' agreement with Brian McCann (#4 on MLBTR's 2014 Top 50 Free Agents list) as a major upgrade and a sign the team isn't putting their offseason plan on hold while they negotiate with Robinson Cano.
- Tim suggests few saw Jhonny Peralta's (#21) four-year, $53MM contract coming and Stephen Drew (#14) should do better even though he's down a suitor and tied to draft pick compensation.
- Tim believes the Phillies paid an acceptable premium to retain catcher Carlos Ruiz (#29) while the Padres obtained a low-risk, high-reward hurler in Josh Johnson (#30).
- Steve Adams argues the Giants' gamble on Tim Hudson (#31) is worthwhile considering the right-hander's market value compared to the other inconsistent options available.
- Steve isn't as bullish about the Royals' signing of Jason Vargas (#35) because there's little room for upside and four years is an overpay in length of contract.
- Steve profiled MLBTR's top-ranked free agent, Robinson Cano.
- Free agent second baseman Omar Infante (#19) is a good fit for the Yankees, according to Tim.
- Tim was the first to report the incentives in Josh Johnson's contract ($1.25MM for making 26 starts), the Pirates were the runners-up for his services, and the other finalists were all NL teams.
- MLBTR was the first to learn Roy Oswalt plans on pitching in 2014, intends to sign this offseason so as to fully participate in Spring Training, and is open to a late-inning relief role.
- Tim broke the news of the Dodgers signing infielder Brendan Harris to a minor league contract with an invitation to Spring Training.
- Tim heard multiple teams are interested in right-handed reliever Matt Albers with a two-year deal a possibility and learned catcher Henry Blanco wants to play one more season.
- Rex Gary, the agent for Shaun Marcum, told MLBTR the right-hander's recovery from thoracic outlet syndrome is progressing well and will participate in his normal offseason throwing program.
- Mike Moye, the agent for Gavin Floyd, updated MLBTR on the right-hander's rehab from elbow surgery.
- Ibrahim Rojas of CMHS Radio Caibarién told MLBTR a trio of Cuban players (19-year-old pitcher Javier Gonzalez, 22-year-old pitcher Jorge Hernandez, and 25-year-old outfielder Dayron Varona) have left their island homeland.
- MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz detailed the arbitration case of Orioles closer Jim Johnson.
- Steve hosted this week's live chat.
- Zach assembled the best of the baseball blogosphere for you in Baseball Blogs Weigh In.
